WHEN Ian Pirkis was in grade 3 in the mid-70s, his class was divided — you were either an ABBA fan or an AC/DC fan.

There’s no prize for guessing which side Mr Pirkis was on.

Mr Pirkis has been a hardcore Acca Dacca fan ever since and even worked as a roadie with the band in 2010, helping build the stage for their Black Ice show at Melbourne’s Etihad Stadium.

Thirty-five years earlier, AC/DC — led by legendary singer Bon Scott — had toured Tasmania, playing five shows in five nights: at the Burnie Civic Centre, Devonport Town Hall, Albert Hall in Launceston, Hobart City Hall, and Queenstown Memorial Hall.

Legend has it that Scott left his mark in Hobart, signing his name on the City Hall dressing room wall. But despite its cultural significance, it seems his handiwork was painted over years later during renovations.

“AC/DC belong to us. Some of them might no longer live in Australia, but it started here.

“Surely they could have preserved his signature forever. Painting over it was an absolute crime.”

Mr Pirkis travelled to Melbourne two years ago to watch the rock ’n roll stage show Hell Ain’t a Bad Place to Be: The Story of Bon Scott — starring former Reptiles frontman Nick Barker as Scott — and is excited it is coming to Hobart.

“If you’re fascinated by AC/DC history, as a lot of fans are, this show puts it all together,” he said.

“When you go to see AC/DC live it affects all of your senses. The music, the atmosphere, the energy resonates through you. This show is authentic, and the detail is just phenomenal. I’ve got a front-row seat and I’m looking forward to the fun.”

Hell Ain’t a Bad Place to Be is at the Theatre Royal from 8pm on September 11 and 12. Tickets are $55-$65, phone 6233 2299 for bookings.